Boucher comes to end PPP-'N' differences: Gilani rules out talks with militants

He said that he had no doubt that the victory of democratic and progressive forces in Pakistan, especially in the NWFP and Balochistan provinces, and the formation of broad-based democratic governments at the centre and in the provinces would further cement the close and cooperative relationship that existed between the two countries. He said that terrorism was a global phenomenon and serious threat to humanity and was ruining global peace and economic development.

The Prime Minister said it was often not realised that one incident of terrorism in Pakistan led to flight of foreign capital from the country besides discouraging the flow of foreign investment. “Similarly, it was a terrorist act that claimed the life of Benazir Bhutto,” he said.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan was therefore fighting terrorism and extremism in its own national interest and not to serve the objectives of another country.

Later, talking to the US Congressional delegation led by Senator Cardin, the Prime Minister said, “we want the US to help Pakistan rebuild its economy”.

 Highlighting the importance Pakistan attached to its relations with the United States, the Prime Minister underscored the desire to deepen bilateral cooperation in diverse fields, including defence, trade, economy, energy and social sectors.

 He told the delegation that the government’s foremost priorities included fighting against extremism and terrorism in Pakistan’s own interest as well as rebuilding the economy.

The Prime Minister also apprised the members of Congress of the three-pronged counter-terrorism strategy.

He further underlined the need for accelerating the ROZs initiative stressing that it would help expand economic opportunities and generate jobs.  The Prime Minister also under-scored the vital interest Pakistan had in a stable Afghanistan.  He also apprised the delegation of the steps taken by Pakistan to strengthen security along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border as well as for the upkeep of 3 million Afghan refugees.  The Prime Minister stressed the need for the international community to support these efforts.       

The members of the Congressional delegation highlighted the strategic importance of the US relations with Pakistan and reciprocated the desire to expand bilateral cooperation in various fields.  They affirmed US readiness to support Pakistan in its efforts to address the security issues and to achieve economic progress over the long term.  

They said that the US regards Pakistan as its important and strategic ally is keen to closely work with the democratic government to help it overcome its economic problems. They said that Pakistan is a lynchpin in the region and we want to expand our bilateral cooperation in all areas including trade, investment and security matters.